The Olympic Airways B727 From the Old Ellinko Airport Will Become an Exhibit

In 2023, Zela Aviation purchased two aircraft from the old Elliniko Airport, one being the BAC1-11 which was restored and successfully placed in Lavrio in December of 2023. The second aircraft, the Olympic Airways B727 which has been out of service for several decades, was moved from the runway of the old Elliniko airport to Vouliagmenis Avenue in March 2024, where it will become an exhibit for the public. As of April 2024, maintenance work continues on the B727 and it will be fully completed in the coming months. There will be an official event with government officials in May 2024.  

The rescue and promotion as a landmark of both aircraft were personally undertaken by the Cypriot businessman, Andreas Christodoulides, the current owner of the Cyprus private aircraft company Zela Aviation.

“These airplanes are historic for Greece and Hellenism; the Olympic airplanes should be remembered by the world, our children and grandchildren,” he said. The goal was to buy them for the public view and to appreciate the aircraft. A great admirer of Onassis, Christodoulides said he bought the planes so that the Greeks would not forget. "So that the world remembers Elliniko the Athens former main airport, Olympic and Onassis.” Andreas Christodoulides states he feels, “Proud for Greece and it is as if I have bought the Acropolis and I am putting it somewhere for Greece and the aviation industry to see.”

Since its establishment in 2006, Zela Aviation has been active in the field of aircraft wet/dry leasing, chartering and aircraft sales maintaining offices in Cyprus, Greece and the United Kingdom. Zela Aviation has and continues to provide a range of services for its clients located in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America. Its leading position, track records throughout the years, and complimented by its very well–trained staff, make Zela Aviation a solid and reliable partner worldwide.